Jared Cannonier Biography
Childhood and Early Life
Jared Christopher Cannonier was born on March 16, 1984, in Dallas, Texas. Growing up in Dallas, little is publicly known about his early family life and childhood experiences. Before embarking on a career in mixed martial arts, Jared served in the United States Army, where he was introduced to combat training through the Army's combatives course. However, after three years of service, he was discharged due to a positive test for marijuana. Following his military service, Cannonier moved to Alaska and worked for the Federal Aviation Administration as an airway transportation systems specialist while pursuing his passion for fighting.
Career in Mixed Martial Arts
Cannonier began his professional MMA career in 2011 at the age of 27, initially competing in the heavyweight division. His early career saw swift success, winning his first six fights by stoppage, including a heavyweight championship at the Alaska Fighting Championship by defeating Tony Lopez in 2014. He made his UFC debut in 2015 but faced his first professional defeat. Over time, Jared transitioned through weight classes, competing in heavyweight, light heavyweight, and eventually middleweight, where he found notable success. Known as "The Killa Gorilla," he is highly regarded for his striking ability, Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills, and tenacity inside the octagon. As of early 2025, he is ranked among the top middleweight fighters in the UFC with a record of multiple Performance of the Night and Fight of the Night awards. Cannonier is recognized for overcoming a significant weight challenge, dropping over 100 pounds to compete at an optimal fighting weight around 185 pounds, demonstrating a fierce dedication to his craft.
Current Family Life
Outside the cage, Jared Cannonier is a family man. He is married to Catherine Cannonier, a former United States Army soldier of Caucasian descent. The couple met during their time in the army and have maintained a close bond through Jared's fighting career. Together, they have three children. Jared currently resides in Arizona with his family, balancing his roles as a professional fighter, husband, and father. His family is said to be a source of inspiration and support throughout his journey in the UFC.
Jared Cannonier Summary
Jared Cannonier's journey from a soldier in the United States Army to a top-ranked UFC middleweight fighter is a testament to his resilience and commitment. Starting his MMA career relatively late, he quickly rose through the ranks, overcoming physical and professional challenges. His career highlights include championship titles, multiple UFC accolades, and a reputation as one of the most exciting fighters in the middleweight division. Beyond his fighting career, Cannonier's role as a husband and father grounds him, providing motivation and balance. His ongoing presence in the UFC continues to captivate fans and showcase his skill and determination inside the octagon.